In Memoriam

Nancy Jane (McCleary) Lee, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2025, in Simi Valley, California, at the age of 74.

Nancy was born on January 21, 1951, in Indianapolis, Indiana, and spent her early years in Glenview, Illinois. She later moved to Canoga Park, California, where her life changed forever when she met her high school sweetheart, Tom Lee, in a history class in 1967 at Canoga Park High School. Nancy graduated in 1969 alongside Tom, and together they built a warm and meaningful life – centered on her deep love for family, her generous heart, and the countless ways she cared for those around her.

Nancy earned her Master’s degree in History and Government in 1978 and soon began what would become a lifelong calling which was teaching. She began her teaching career at Simi Valley High School in 1978 and later moved to Apollo High School, where she taught from 1990 until her retirement in 2012. Her students knew her not just as a teacher, but as a guiding light – firm yet compassionate, fiercely intelligent, and always full of grace. She had a gift for making each person feel seen, valued, and above all things – loved.

Nancy is survived by her husband of over 57 years, Tom Lee; her three sons and their families: Bryan Lee and his wife Heidi, and their children Jonathan and Trinity; Dustin Lee and his wife Katie, and their children Dylan and Dominic; and Travis Lee, and his children Gianna and Max.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, John and Sue McCleary, who helped shape the kind and compassionate woman she became. She also endured the heartbreaking loss of her beloved son, Jonathan Lee, who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident while riding with Nancy, and Tom, who passed away at birth – a quiet sorrow she bore with grace and enduring love. Her cherished golden retriever, Abby, who was her loyal companion for many years, is surely by her side once again in Heaven.

Nancy lived a full and joy-filled life. She loved tending to her garden, getting lost in a good book, and spending countless hours in her craft room, creating thoughtful, handmade cards and other beautiful creations for her friends and family. Each piece was a reflection of her love and care, crafted with attention to detail. Whether it was a card, a gift, or a special homemade item, Nancy’s creations were her way of brightening someone’s day and showing them how much they meant to her. Nancy loved her morning walks – something she did every single day, never missing a step consecutively for more than 4 years. A walk wasn’t complete without drinking her favorite cup of coffee and having Abby by her side and often times leading the way! She loved listening to a little James Taylor or Venice. She cherished the deep friendships she built through her Corvette club girls and more specifically her book club, and she truly came alive when surrounded by the people she loved. But nothing brought her more joy than being “Nana” to her grandchildren – her heart overflowed for each and every one of them.

Nancy had a heart overflowing with kindness and an unmatched ability to love others unconditionally. She was not only a mother to her own children but became a “second mom” to countless students over the years. Her legacy is one of compassion, laughter, loyalty, and a true deep love – a legacy that will live on in the many lives she touched.